February 19th 2024.
Dara Mathis is not your average writer or journalist. She has a unique ability to use language and ideas to shape conversations around some of the most pressing issues in the country. Her commentary has sparked much-needed discussions and earned her the prestigious 2024 American Mosaic Journalism Prize. In an exclusive interview with BLACK ENTERPRISE, Mathis shares her thoughts on this achievement and the responsibility she carries as a writer in today's society.
Born and raised in Tampa, FL, Mathis may have a hometown, but her love for literature has allowed her to create roots everywhere. She credits her mother and community for instilling a love of reading and exposing her to diverse literature at a young age. As she grew older, Mathis found inspiration in the works of Toni Morrison, Sheree L. Greer, and Sarah M. Broom, among others. She acknowledges the influence of these writers on her career, saying, "I owe a great debt to Black feminist writers. I take a lot of inspiration from them, both in life and in my writing."
Receiving the American Mosaic Journalism Prize was a moment of shock and gratitude for Mathis. She admits that it has been life-changing and has altered her material reality for the next 12 months. But her success as a writer did not come easily. Before dedicating herself to writing professionally, Mathis worked as an insurance specialist. However, she knew deep down that writing was her true passion. So, despite the challenges of being a new mother and the ongoing recession, she took a leap of faith and pursued writing full-time.
With determination and hard work, Mathis established herself as a freelance writer and built an impressive portfolio. She credits her success to her willingness to take risks and her ability to learn and adapt quickly. As her writing gained more exposure, she received more opportunities to contribute to various outlets. Mathis also emphasizes the importance of writers being accountable to their communities and reporting with integrity and emotional truth.
In a society where media plays a crucial role in shaping opinions, Mathis believes it is essential to cover global movements and connect them to the larger scheme for liberation. She stresses the significance of understanding history and learning from past movements to continue the fight for equality. Despite her accomplishments, Mathis remains humble and focused, with no plans of slowing down. She continues to write for various publications, including The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Week, and Blackbird.
As she reflects on her journey and the impact of her writing, Mathis remains passionate about advocating for Black liberation. Her award-winning essay, A Blueprint for Black Liberation, serves as a testament to her commitment to her community. And as she continues to use her voice and influence to shape conversations and spark change, there is no doubt that Dara Mathis will continue to make a significant impact in the world of journalism and beyond.
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